Sunday, March 18, 2007

Maya Civilization

A Mesoamerican civilization, noted for its spectacular art, monumental architecture, and sophisticated mathematical and astronomical systems. At its peak, it was one of the most densely populated and culturally dynamic societies in the world. Maya architecture spans many thousands of years, but the most dramatic and easily recognizable are the stepped pyramids. Each pyramid was dedicated to a deity whose shrine sat at its peak. During this "height" of Maya culture, the centers of their religious, commercial and bureaucratic power grew into incredible cities, including Chichen Itza, Tikal, and Uxmal.